Former Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) president Luis Rubiales had his home searched amid an investigation into alleged corruption.
Authorities are looking into the deal to play Supercopa de Espana games in Saudi Arabia, and The Athletic reports that seven arrests were planned with a further five people placed under investigation across Spain. The RFEF headquarters and Rubiales’ property in Granada were among 11 places to be searched by Guardia Civil officers.
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The deal to restructure the Supercopa de Espana and move it to Saudi Arabia was agreed in 2019, changing it from one match between two teams into a four-team tournament including the winners and runners-up of La Liga and the Copa del Rey. The RFEF will earn a reported €240 million (£205m/$260) over six seasons.
Rubiales’ tenure as RFEF president came to an end last year after he kissed Jenni Hermoso without the star’s consent as he handed out winners’ medals after they beat England in the Women’s World Cup final.
FIFA banned the official for three years and the punishment was upheld after he appealed against it, with the governing body insistent he was lucky to avoid further punishment. He may even face prosecution for sexual assault after an investigation was opened up in Spain. Rubiales has consistently protested his innocence against the accusations, accusing Hermoso of lying about the situation.
The investigation into the Supercopa deal began following a formal legal complaint that was made in May 2022. It is not yet known if Rubiales or the other individuals being investigated will be prosecuted by authorities.
Source: goal.com
